ST. LOUIS – Blues President John Davidson has issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Blues players Pavol Demitra and Igor Korolev.

“On behalf of the St. Louis Blues, we are deeply saddened by the tragedy that took place today in Russia involving the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey club. The entire hockey community has been affected by this news and our most heart-felt condolences go out to the families of those who perished.”

“The St. Louis Blues have lost two members of our family, Pavol Demitra and Igor Korolev, and our thoughts and prayers are with their families as well. Pavol and Igor were both incredibly passionate and dedicated players and their influence in St. Louis was not only felt on the ice, but throughout the community.”

Pavol Demitra was acquired by the Blues in 1996 and spent eight seasons in St. Louis (1996-2004).

Igor Korolev was drafted by the Blues in the second round of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft and spent two seasons in St. Louis (1992-1994).

Former Blues forward Keith Tkachuk, who played with Demitra and Brad McCrimmon, who also died in the crash, said, "I am beyond devastated by the tragic news involving my good friends Brad and Pavol and the rest of their teammates in Russia. Brad was my teammate in Phoenix and later coached me in Atlanta and was truly a wonderful man who will be greatly missed. Pav was like a brother to me and I cannot believe that he is no longer with us.

"This is a terrible day for the hockey fraternity. My family’s thoughts and prayers are with their families during this difficult time.”